ASAS 5 0 - Angkatan Sasterawan `50

ASAS 50
A BIANNUAL NEWSLETTER
MAY 2012-ISSN:1793-4013X
1
s
k
a
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p
s
editor
of first words
As a former undergraduate of architecture, nothing both intrigued and
motivated me more than the search for the “perfect space”. What else
could be more essential and crucial than that “golden mean” of spatial
possibilities where anything can be positioned to have its status
elevated instantly without compromising the space and leaving its
integrity invariably intact? I do realise now that that particular space
In
In !"
!"
"sue:
"sue:
Page
Page1 5
PSN
XVIdiam
A ROUSING
Nunc
quis
neque.
SUCCESS
Sed orci ligula, aliquam
nec luctus vitae.
need not necessarily exist within the physical realm; writers and
activists and artists have, for ages, been searching for a parallel space
as I had done and the search has not ceased.
Filling the space left by former editor of this newsletter, an esteemed
gentleman and a scholar, Muhammad Irwan Jamal, will unveil new
definitions and challenges in my endeavour to attain a certain balance
in conveying new ideas and meanings to the readers. Change and
changing perspectives make us feel distinctly temporal yet it remains a
driving force for innovation and design.
The new design of the newsletter is something that the editorial team
Page 9
have given much thought to. In creating and recreating the blank
NLB SIGNS MOU WITH
Page 2
FAMILY OF MASURI
canvas and finite space, I realised that form and colour do define the
Nunc quis diam neque.
Sed orci ligula,
aliquam
Page 16
nec luctus
ASAS
YOUTHvitae,
MENTOR
sodales
BAGS Aeu
HATTRICK
purus.
reader’s perception of any given article or idea, whether intended or
not. We have tried to come up with a solution, a space that portrays an
article or an idea in the most focused way possible.
Because with true focus, only then can one move mountains. So let’s
get pushing.
Page 3
Integer rhoncus diam eu
sem imperdiet aliquet.
2
Phasellus
in lacus
massa.
Muhammad Herwanto Johari
S
Towards a Golden Age
K
The life of any literary organization depended very
A
much on its ability to motivate the literary world.
Motivating here refers to its ability to continue
E
3
P
sustaining its movements bringing not only a sense
S
of hope to others but avenues for others to realize
PRESIDENT
their potentials. For the past sixty years Asas ’50
has done just that. But in May 2011, Asas ’50
efforts received a boost when it was given a place
in the Goodman Arts Centre – A centre for the arts
by National Arts Council Singapore (NAC). This is
indeed the first time that Asas ’50 has its own
office space and staff to look into the daily running
of Asas ’50 programmes.
Asas ’50 is also the proud recipient of NAC Major
Grant for 2011 worth $75, 000 that goes into the
development of creative programmes, publications
and setting up Asas ’50 logistical supports. The
strong support by NAC has brought about a
Asas ’50 has also worked closely with the National
change in paradigm for Asas ’50 movements as it
library Board (NLB) to dedicate a space for
becomes more mainstream and professional in its
Singapore Malay writers in the National Library as
outlook. Such proactive development further
recognition to the dedication and life commitment
enhanced the image of Asas ’50 and boost the
by such writers in crafting their creative ideas in
morale of its members and the confidence of the
enriching the Singapore literary scene.
writing and education fraternity.
A memorandum of understanding was also signed
In the same month Asas ’50 conducted the 16th
between NLB and the family of the late Masuri SN
Regional Writers Conference (PSN). It is a
in June 2011 where Masuri’s works were donated
landmark event in Singapore that witnessed the
to NLB. The works will be preserved and put up
coming together of writers and academicians from
for display. NLB agreed to produce and published
Singapore, Malaysia, Brunei, Indonesia, and
a coffee table book on the biography of Masuri
Thailand. The theme for the conference “going
SN. This is a joint project with Asas ’50.
back to the roots generating new paradigms” is
timely as Singapore moves aggressively into the
global city venture that calls not only for the
preservation of culture and heritage but putting
them into the new platform so that they continue
to remain relevant and dynamic. The conference
“The strong support by NAC has brought
about a change in paradigm for Asas ’50’s
movements, as it becomes more mainstream
and professional in its outlook.”
provides avenue for sharing of experiences and
strategies for the regional literary scene.
3
and education landscape. Research and educating
programme was under the mentorship of Professor
the masses on literary works continue to be the
Emeritus Dr Budi Darma, a prominent Indonesian
main focus in Asas ’50 as it forms the basis of any
novelist, short story writer, essayist, literary critics,
motivation. This may well explain the success of
and renowned academician from Universitas
Asas ’50 publication Bureau in churning up 20
Negeri Surabaya (UNESA) Indonesia. This
titles for 2012.
programme has been successful in producing 5
novels from budding Singapore writers. More
importantly Asas ’50 is also privilege to publish a
collection of Singapore-based poems by Dr Budi
Darma in conjuction with the programme. The 5
novels will be launched during the Singapore
Writers Festival 2012.
2012 also witnessed the publication of the 6
books under the Singapore Malay Heritage Series
Collections that provides Singapore with a
document on the Malay culture and language
through its literary geniuses. These books marked
Asas ’50 support of the increasing emphasis on
e t h n i c h e r i t a g e a n d c u l t u re t h a t e n r i c h e d
Singapore cultural landscape. These books were
first introduced to the region during its soft launch
in PSN XVI in 2011.
In support of the on-going projects by NAC and
NLB, Asas ’50 has also introduced the publication
of Singapore Malay Studies Monograph in 2012.
The first two monographs are in conjunction with
NLB project on Muhd Ariff Ahmad, and the other is
for NAC project on Masuri SN. Asas ’50 takes the
initiative of engaging national initiatives in its
publications and programming.
4
Mohamed Pitchay Gani Mohamed Abdul Aziz
President
Angkatan Sasterawan 50
S
supported by Darul Andalus. The 8 months
K
young and veteran writers as well as the research
A
Inter national Writers Residency Programme
E
Singapore with new initiatives benefiting both the
P
writers who joined the inaugural Asas ’50 – NAC
S
Asas ’50 continues to motivate the literary world in
PRESIDENT
2012 witnessed the flowering of the budding
PSN XVI
PSN XVI A ROUSING SUCCESS
by Shaheda Salim &
Siti Noraisha Mohamed Senin
Dari
Gerhana
Ke Puncak
Purnama
An exhibition of the 50
years in Singapore’s Malay
literary history was also
held at the venue of the
conference.
Since its inception in Singapore on 24th December 1977,
Pertemuan Sasterawan Nusantara (PSN) or also known as
R e g i o n a l Wr i t e r s C o n v e n t i o n h a s b e e n c o n d u c t e d
consistently. A biennial Regional Writers Convention XVI and
the Education Seminar II was held for a period of two days
on the 20th to 21st of May 2011 at the Furama City Centre,
Singapore.
It was solely organised by the Angkatan Sasterawan ‘50 and
was jointly supported by renowned organisations such as
the collaborated national writers of Malaysia (GAPENA),
Angkatan Sasterawan Brunei Darussalam (ASTERAWANI)
and the development for Indonesian language body. The
event was proudly sponsored by the National Arts Council
(NAC) and the Malay Language and Learning Promotion
Committee (MLLPC).
The theme, ‘Moving towards building a new paradigm while
remaining rooted’, gathered a total of 100 participants
ranging from junior college students to professionals, during
the 2-day seminar. Altogether, close to 20 working papers
were presented by selected speakers from Thailand, Brunei,
Indonesia, Malaysia as well as Singapore.
5
The opening ceremony for the event was
elective subject. The papers also provided
graced by the Guest-of-Honour, Mr Masagos
educators of the Malay language the knowledge of
Zulkifli Masagos Mohamad, Minister of State
using software in their lessons, conduct Malay
Ministry of Education and Ministry of Home
language and literature programmes intended for
Affairs. He also witnessed the book launch of
the public, plans to popularise Malay language and
‘A Special Collection of the Singapore
l i t e r a t u re t o w a rd s i n t e r n a t i o n a l re c o g n i t i o n ,
Heritage’ which was written by our veteran
marketing of Malay language and literary products
and prominent literary figures namely Masuri
to the masses via regional marketing, internet, book
SN, Muhd Ariff Ahmad, Suratman Markasan,
fairs and international activities.
Abdul Ghani Hamid, Mohamed Latiff
Mohamed, and Aliman Hassan. This was a
PSN XVI
positive initiative by the Angkatan Sasterawan
’50, as the main publisher for the collection of
books, to preserve the Malay heritage as well
as history for the usage and reference of
future generation.
An award-giving ceremony was also
presented during the opening to acknowledge
the initiatives and effort put in by Drs Masran
Sabran, who was the key player in fostering
ties between the neighbouring countries, to
develop the Malay intellectual infrastructure.
The closing ceremony for the event was graced by
the Guest-of-Honour, Mr Sidek Saniff, who was
previously the Minister of State for Education. He
had expressed his gratitude and heartfelt thanks in
his moving speech and presented the appreciation
plaques to the delegates of each country.
Ultimately, the event was a tremendous success.
Angkatan Sasterawan ’50 secretariats received
numerous compliments from distinguished guests,
participants as well as the delegates from each
country for our hospitality. The event, once again
has marked another slice of history where regional
countries came together for a good cause, to share
Papers presented in PSN XVI provided useful
their knowledge and discuss the development of
knowledge for the participants to
Malay language and literature to bring it to a higher
comprehend. Participants were introduced to
level.
new and creative ways to appreciate Malay
language and literature as a core subject as
Special award recipient, Drs Masran Sabran (left) with Mr Masagos Zulkifli and Mr Mohamed Pitchay Gani (right).
6
E
G
T A
I
R
E
H
R Y
A
R
E
T
I
L
SINGAPORE LITERARY HERITAGE COLLECTION
by Mohamed Pitchay Gani
Mutiara Bijaksana
Muhd Ariff Ahmad
Kami Anak Zaman ini
Masuri SN
Laluan Budaya
Abdul Ghani Hamid
Api yang Membara
Suratman Markasan
Mestika Pusaka
Aliman Hassan
Bangsaku di Hari Lahirku
Mohamed Latiff Mohamed
The SINGAPORE LITERARY HERITAGE COLLECTION
project documents works of high literary value from
established laureates in the national literature scene of
Singapore. They are Masuri SN, Muhd Ariff Ahmad,
Mohamed Latiff Mohamed, Suratman Markasan, Aliman
Hassan and Abdul Ghani Hamid. They are recipients of the
highest literary Malay award in Singapore – the Tun Seri
Lanang Award given out by the Malay Language Council
Singapore for their outstanding contribution in the realm of
literary arts and selfless devotion to the arts. They are also
recipients of the SEA Write Award and some have garnered
the Cultural Medallion award by MICA.
A soft launch of the books was conducted in 2011 in
conjunction with the 16th Regional Writers Conference.
Minister of State For Education and Home Affairs, Mr
Masagos Zulkifli Masagos Mohamad launched the books on
20th May 2011 at the Furama Hotel in the presence of
regional representatives from Malaysia, Brunei, Indonesia,
and Thailand. This project also receives support from The
Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport Heritage Grant.
7
MAJOR GRANT
ASAS ’50
RECEIVES
MAJOR
GRANT
FROM NAC
by Muhammad Herwanto Johari
ASAS ’50 received a major boost when it was
announced that it was amongst the 16
recipients of National Arts Council’s Major
Grant scheme in FY2011. As one of the
beneficiaries of the $1.92 million, ASAS ’50
will receive $75,000, the biggest ever fund
injection since its inception.
The funds will be used to support the various
activities and efforts planned throughout the
year in line with the recommendation of the
Renaissance City Report released in 2000 to
assist outstanding arts organisations in their
“long term artistic and administrative growth”.
The grant is a testament to the vibrancy,
capabilities and organisational excellence
portrayed by ASAS ’50, which had been
consistently producing new and fresh
initiatives to enliven the literary arts landscape
in Singapore.
The additional funds will be instrumental in
helping to reinvigorate the organisation,
streamline its efforts into a higher quality
production of literary works. This is in addition
to the annually organised iconic literary
events, competitions, workshops, discussion,
performances and publications which have
been the hallmark of the youth-driven
organisation.
8
Part of the grant will be used to support
the costs of upgrading its online portal,
office space rental, booking of venues for
events, staff remuneration and organising a
regional literary conference.
The grant also serves as an affirmation of
the quality of production of ASAS ’50, its
sound governance, breadth and scope of
initiatives, potential for development as well
as its sustainability in the long term.
ASAS ’50’s continued collaboration and
support of mainstream national
organisations like NAC and NLB have been
the keystone of its governing policy,
p ro v i d i n g v a l u a b l e e x p o s u re f o r i t s
members and its youth to the rigours and
demands of initiating and implementing
programmmes
“The grant is a testament to the
vibrancy, capabilities and
organisational excellence
portrayed by ASAS ’50”
programmes at a higher level. These efforts
have helped ASAS ’50 to bridge the gap
between the Malay literary world and the
horizons beyond.
MASURI SN
NLB SIGNS
MOU WITH
FAMILY OF
MASURI
by Muhammad Herwanto Johari
The National Library Board will be
administering the cultural heritage material of
late laureate, Masuri SN, which was donated
by his family, last year. The collection which
consists of manuscripts, monographs, plays,
essays, souvenir magazine and periodicals
was handed over after the signing of a
Memorandum of Understanding with NLB on
9 June 2011. The signing was initiated by
ASAS ’50, acting as trustee of Masuri’s
intellectual property, of which the late Masuri
was a founding member and prime mover.
Masuri SN: One of Singapore’s
foremost literary titans
By 2005, he had produced a formidable
number of poems, nudging over 1,000 pieces
The project collaboration to document such
and was widely regarded as the “Father of
works has been ongoing since 2003 when
Moden Sajak (Malay poetry)”. Some of the
ASAS ’50 signed the MOU with NLB. ASAS
unfinished works included in the collection
’50 supported NLB in the creation of its
were meant to be used in the late laureate’s
Online Repository of Artistic works (NORA).
memoir.
ASAS ’50 also initiated the donations of
ASAS ’50’s unstinting commitment towards
books and manuscripts by established
the preservation of Masuri’s works allied with
Malay laureates such as Abdul Ghani
NLB’s efforts are instrumental for the
Hamid, Aliman Hassan, Ariff Ahmad, and
documentation and development of the
Masuri SN. Other notable joint publications
nation’s writers and their works. It is also
include the compilation of the 12th
ASAS ’50’s hope that this MOU will help pave
Regional Writers Conference working
the way for the continued and valued use of
papers and the directory of Malay writers.
other works by local writers and to work
towards a common Malay Donors Collection
at NLB.
9
by Hairani Asri
The old
adage that “the only certainty is
uncertainty” has never been the key principle
in ASAS ’50. In fact, the volatility of Malay
language in a cosmopolitan city like
Singapore serves as a challenge for a nonprofit organisation like ours to step up to the
plate. In response to such trends, we
reassessed the infrastructure of our
programmes and strategies; transitioning
more towards youth excellence.
For instance, not one but three of our
budding youth writers had their creative
stories published in the form of a novelette.
This would not be possible without the
mentorship of Professor Emeritus Budi
Darma, one of Indonesia’s most influential
writers. The international literary stage also
witnessed two of our representatives from the
Youth Wing engaging in the initiatives of
Southeast Asia Literary Council or MASTERA
held in Bogor, Indonesia.
A published book that documented students’
creative literary works from Qihua Primary
School, is a recent testament that the
organisation still lives up to its motto; “Seni
untuk Masyarakat” or “Arts for The Masses”.
Earlier in 2012, our team of experienced
youth members together with other trainee
teachers from the Institute of National
Education (NIE) worked closely in facilitating a
two-day event, “Perkhemahan Adab dan
10
Kesantunan” organised by Singapore’s
Malay Language Council (MBMS).
As we continue to develop ideas for 2012
and beyond, ASAS ’50 has put forward a
few of its plans for this year. One of which
is the upcoming National Spelling Bee
Competition. Quality at its best, this
competition will be back in August to pit
the students in a battle of nerves again.
Moreover, our literary sojourn for the
coming month of June consists of a oneday learning expedition at Pulau
Penyengat, Riau, where historical remnants
of the old Malay royale, namely the RiauLingga empire, used to be seated.
Apart from this, a book lauch cum sharing
session will be lined up at the end of this
y e a r t o o f f i c i a l i s e A S A S ’ 5 0 ’s 2 0 1 2
publications to the masses. Most
importantly, as we continue to forge
common goals in the literary movement,
ASAS ’50 will still adopt a coherent youthdriven strategy that has kept this
organisation going strong for 62 years!
Hairani Asri is a trainee teacher at the
National Institute of Education and the
subeditor of ASAS ’50’s newsletter.
n
m
u
l
o
c
introspect
fresh and inspiring:
STRATEGIES for the
millennium
5 0
A S
S
A
SPACE TO GROW
by Ariff Rizwan Sahab
The first ever ASAS '50 office is currently
located at 60 Goodman Road, Block B,
#05-12. Goodman Arts Centre also houses
many other arts and literary organizations in
Singapore. Officially launched on 4th June
2012, the office space was awarded by the
National Arts Council (NAC) under the major
grant scheme.
The new office is mainly used as a base for
operations and planning by the committee
members. Meetings by exco members and
the youth wing are held monthly at the office
to discuss strategies and implementation of
programmes.
The office is now developing into a research
centre with a collection of more than 100
books donated by Mr Mohamed Pitchay
Gani, President of Angkatan Sasterawan '50.
Youth members also meet there for training
sessions and workshops to further hone their
knowledge and skills as writers, literary
activists and academic researchers.
Youth wing members now have a space for reorganisation, planning, reflection and
communal gatherings.
11
yout
h
@ LARGE
ASAS YOUTHS
REPRESENT
SINGAPORE
by Fariz Husna Sajani
Asas ’50 was once again invited to
represent Singapore and grace the
Regional Malay Poetry Recital together
with representatives from Gapena,
BUDIMAN from Malaysia and prominent
poets from Indonesia. The regional event
which was held at Sultan Idris Education
University on 22 December 2011
coincided with a Malay Literary
Patriotism seminar organised by the
Institute Of Malay Civilization in
collaboration with Malay Language &
Literature Department, Sultan Idris
Education University, Dewan Bahasa &
Pustaka (DBP) & Darul Ridzuan Institute.
Hoirull Amri (above) was one of the youth wing members who represented Singapore at the
Regional Malay Poetry Recital in December 2011.
12
Fariz Husna, (second from left), Hoirull Amri (third from right) and Arni Johan (right) did Singapore proud.
ASAS
YOUTHS
REPRESENT
SINGAPORE
UPSI undergraduates, researchers,
lecturers and invited guests were
amongst the eager audience
anticipating the warmth and energy
from the performers during the
night event. Indonesian poets
rocked the stage with melodious
flute and harmonious violin rhythms
along with the hypnotic delivery of
rhetorical poems. Malaysian poets
amazed everyone with their
dynamism, summoning the
universal spirit towards a more
gracious humanity.
Arni Johan made her debut for
Singapore with her melodious yet
s p i r i t e d re fl e c t i o n o n M a l a y
leadership with her poem entitled
‘Sumpah Nakhoda’ or ‘The
Captain’s Creed’. Hoirull Amri
spellbounded the audience with his
award winning poem entitled
‘Periuk Nasi’ leaving the audience
t o r e fl e c t u p o n h i s p o e t r y,
encapsulated in the meaning of
man's every meal.
Fariz Husna wrapped up for
Singapore with his take on
controversial beliefs and
s t e re o t y p i c a l m i n d s e t s t h a t
transcend morality, values and
ethics with his latest published
poem ‘Variasi Versi’ or ‘Various
Versions’. The night ended with a
joyous reception; young and
veteran poets mingling and
building upon the camaraderie
within the region.
Our special appreciation goes to
Professor Halim for giving ASAS
’50 another platform to share the
talents of its youth. In addition, we
would like to thank Drs Masran
Sabran too for his unstinting work
in maintaining strong ties between
ASAS ’50 and UPSI for the
betterment of regional literary
development.
13
Dedicated youth wing leaders, Ariff (above, left) and Shahirah (above, right) power up a nostalgic show.
by Ariff Rizwan Sahab
4th June 2011 marked a significant
date for ASAS ’50 as it brought
nostalgic memories rushing back at
the Tun Sri Lanang. The event was
held to commemorate ‘Malam
Puisi’, which used to be an iconic
event in the late 1980s, gathering
prominent literary figures as well as
literary enthusiasts for a communal
poetry recital. This event was also
held in conjunction with the grand
opening of ASAS ’50’s new office
at Goodman Arts Centre.
14
This memorable event was
witnessed by the committee
members and members of the
youth wing, secretariat of Regional
Writers Convention XVI (PSN),
distinguished guests as well as
members of the public. Amongst
the distinguished guests present
were the veteran literary activists
such as Suradi Sipan and Selamat
Omar. The invited guests who were
also present to grace the event
were Masran Sabran, Karmin
Abbas, Khalid Salleh, Noor Hasnah
Adam and Mohd Hizammuddin.
The climax for this event was the
poetry recital by all the committee
members, led by Mohamed Latiff
Mohamed who also officially
launched the event. The youth from
Asas ’50 also contributed in
reciting their own poetry. The
mesmerising poetry recital was
further energised by recitals of the
Pantun, Gurindam and Seloka.
The event officially ended with a
melancholic recital by the President
of Asas ’50, Mohamed Pitchay
Gani titled ‘Dalam Laluan Ini’
followed by a farewell speech
before he left for his sabbatical.
HEARTLAND
POET
by
Shaheda Salim
Siti Noraisha Mohamed Senin
Sitti Maisarah Abu Bakar
A Saturday morning combined with
a dose of Malay literature may not
sound like your ideal combo.
However, this was not the case for
the zesty students who
participated in ‘The Gen Z Poet
2011’ held at Geylang East Library.
Already in its third cycle, this literary
workshop continues to propel our
Generation Z
into the creative world of poetry
appreciation. The press coverage
in 2010 was a positive signal that
Asas ’50 should further promote
the success of this workshop to
schools and bring forth Malay
poetry to our youths. Hence, this
explained the continuous demand
of such workshops from various
school clusters.
Our three muskeeters - Mr Yazid
Hussein, Mr Fariz Husna Sajani and
Mr Ariff Rizwan Sahab proved to be
highly engaging as they brought
the students into the technical
aspects and the beautiful realms of
poetry. Participants penned down
their individual poems first, followed
by a Graftera session which saw
them utilising their creativity to
interpret the poems into visual
forms.
The finale was a performance
based on a poem created by a
fellow participant from every group.
Furthermore, this whole process
would not be possible without the
guidance of our facilitators from
ASAS ’50’s Youth Wing.
Participants were guided on how to
appreciate poetry through the
language and style of writing as
well as the different components in
poetry such as theme, message
and tone. They were also
introduced to the fusion of literature
and the arts called Graftera which
is aimed to spark interest of the
participants to create unique works
of art; creativity is therefore
involved. Creating original works of
literature and art are meant to build
confidence within participants to
further appreciate Malay literature.
M o s t
importantly,
the success
of
this
workshop
was
not
measured by
number of
participants
who turned up.
Instead, seeing
our participants
leave the venue
feeling inspired
and knowing that
there was another
dimension to the
Malay literary world
that they never
knew existed, was a
truer indicator.
15
Herwanto (above, far right) receving the Anugerah Harapan at Anugerah Persuratan 2011. From left, Dr
Liaw Yock Fang (Anugerah Khas), Mr Masagos Zulkifli, Dr Yacob Ibrahim and Dr Hadijah Rahmat
(Anugerah Tun Seri Lanang).
ASAS YOUTH MENTOR BAGS A HATTRICK
2011 proved to be a watershed year for Youth Mentor and ASAS ’50 Head of Publications, Muhammad
Herwanto bin Johari. After graduating top of his class in NIE and bagging the Rotary International 75th
Anniversary Gold Medal and the Singapore Malay Teachers’ Union Book Award, Herwanto was awarded the
Anugerah Harapan by Majlis Bahasa Melayu Singapura (MBMS) during Anugerah Persuratan 2011 which was
held at Shangri-La Hotel. The former head of the youth wing received the award from Mr Masogos Zulkifli at the
event alongside 15 other writers where Dr Hadijah Rahmat received the highest Malay literary award in
Singapore, Anugerah Tun Seri Lanang.
Herwanto, who is currently entering his final year at Nanyang Technological University, was also awarded the
Passion Award by NIE’s Director, Professor Lee Sing Kong for his dedication and invaluable service to the NIE
community as Trainee Teachers’ Club President. He later went on to receive the Anugerah Mendaki from
Education Minister, Heng Swee Keat in September 2011. He has gone on record to state his gratitude to ASAS
’50 for giving him the opportunities to develop himself and contribute to the community. In addition to compiling
and editing 2 youth poetry and short story anthologies, he is currently working towards a few projects this year
namely, ASAS ‘50‘s signature events, Bulan Bahasa 2012 and the Singapore Writers’ Festival. Well done,
Herwanto!
16
EJA TEPAT
by Ariff Rizwan Sahab
The Spelling Bee Competition has
never looked back since its maiden
attempt in 2007. In fact, it is
garnering more buzz as this
trademark event of Asas ’50 will be
held again in 2012. This year’s
competition will be held at
Goodman Arts Centre, the first
event held within the compunds of
Asas ‘50’s office and the National
Arts Council (NAC).
The
continuous support given by
MLLPC and participating schools
around Singapore have been the
driving force that kept this
competition going strong.
Altogether, a total of 80 Primary 3
students with two representatives
from each school took part in this
year’s competition under the
slogan “Budaya Eja Anjak Bahasa”.
Among the honourable guests
invited for the event were the
Minister of Parliament, Grassroot
Committee for Hong Kah, Mr Zaqy
Muhammad who was also the
Guest of Honour for the event,
President of Angkatan Sasterawan
’50 (ASAS ’50), Mr Mohamed
Pitchay Gani and national literary
fi g u r e , M r M o h a m e d L a t i f f
Mohamed and a representative
from the MLLPC, Mdm Rashidah
Mohamed Rafei.
Tampines North Primary School
emerged as the champion of Eja
Tepat 2011. Coming in at first
place, the winning team
edged out competition from Radin
Mas Primary School and Qihua
Primary School who attained the
2nd and 3rd placing respectively.
W ith more than 35 schools
participating, all 80 students in
teams of two went through the
qualifying round which saw the top
ten teams with the best scores
progressing to the next stage of
the competition.
Well done to the winners and
participants!
Eja Tepat 2011 Top Three:
1st - Noor Asyran Bin Hamidon and Muhd Syukri
Bin Abdul Fazil (Tampines North Primary School)
2nd - Nabila Izzaty Bte Md Najib and Aiman Zvyan
Bin Zuraiddy (Radin Mas Primary School)
3rd - Nur Khairiyah Bte Mohammad F and Nur
Hafizah Mohamed Yusu (Qihua Primary School)
!
SPELLING BUZZ!
17
SANTAI SASTERA
by Shahirah Samsudin
Santai Sastera or Literary Sojourn is
a monthly activity organized by
ASAS ’50 Youth Wing.
Santai
Sastera was pioneered by a youth
member, Suryadi Bajuri a few years
ago with the main objective of
encouraging the youth to learn more
about Sastera (literature) through
creative ways which will certainly
take effect.
These creative and new ways hope
to change the views of youth
towards Malay Literature while it
brings them into a journey
towards loving and
appreciating Malay
Literature. Santai
Sastera is also known
for being able to
highlight literature in
a new, fun and
more relaxing
light. National Arts Council (NAC)
has aided ASAS’50 in making this
objective come true.
Activities are held in order to aid
participants understanding towards
the different aspects of literature
highlighted. Activities such as races,
sports, puzzles, gameshows and
more are conducted to enable
participants to have fun while
learning. Each Santai Sastera will
end with a session, which allows
participants to produce their
SANTAI
SASTERA
18
Santai Sastera participants after a day of Piramida Games.
own product according to theme of
the specific Santai Sastera. This
allows participants to showcase
their talent in writing. The works of
participants are then collected and
compiled into an E-Book.
Santai Sastera is known as a core
programme organized by ASAS ’50
Yo u t h W i n g . S u c h w a s t h e
overwhelming response to activities
that it was featured in I3, an insertmagazine, for local Malay
newspaper, Berita Harian. More
activities will be organized in the
future for a wider range of people.
Do come and visit our website at
asas50.com for the latest updates
a n d p ro g r a m m e s f o r S a n t a i
Sastera!
YOUTH
ACTIVISM PAYS
OFF
by Nurul Fasha Samsudin
The task of bringing theory and
practice together is often more
complex than many realize. Such
was the situation when I first
stepped into Si Ling Primary
School to undergo ten weeks of
teaching practice as a Malay
Language teacher. It was no longer
just a lesson plan to be submitted
during tutorials or simply a case of
throwing around pedagogical
strategies such as Piaget’s Theory
of Development, Vygotsky’s model
of ZPD, multiple intelligences and
such. It was reality and reality was
overwhelming, to say the least. As
cliché as it might be, it really was
‘show time’.
It dawned on me early on that I had
already garnered all the tools I
needed to step up to the
challenge, tapping into all my past
experiences as a student, a trainee
teacher and of course, a youth
member of ASAS ‘50 These
experiences proved invaluable as I
embarked on this new chapter.
One experience that particularly
stood out was my involvement in
Heartland Poet 2009, a national
initiative by ASAS ‘50 that involved
521 secondary school students.
Being the facilitator of the program
and a compiler of ‘The Gen Z Poet’
book, I gained more than just self
confidence.
As a trainee teacher with absolute
no formal teaching experience, it
was only through Heartland Poet
that I came to interact with
students, manage them and
understand more about them, not
just a student but also as a person.
That experience was key in
equipping myself with the basic
skills of breaking the ice and
ensuring that students trust me
whilst ensuring lessons were
delivered more effectively.
The ten weeks definitely did not
come easy. There were challenges,
struggles and of course the candid
moments which brought much joy
and meaning. I gave my students
the best I had and thankfully, they
reciprocated in kind. I have only
just started my journey to become
a better teacher and the path that
awaits is a much longer one with
more hurdles to be
crossed. In the light of
experience, however,
everything just
becomes that much
simpler.
19
Nurul Fasha (right) with her fellow trainees.
Mast
era
Shaheda (left) and Shahirah (right), the two
Delegates at the programme
representatives of Singapore enjoying a meal.
read:think:write:love@bogor
by Shaheda Salim
In July 2011, two representatives from Asas ‘50’s Youth Wing, Shahirah Samsudin and yours truly represented Singapore for
a five-day novel writing programme under Southeast Asia Literary Council or MASTERA. An all-expenses paid trip to the
beautiful land of Bogor, Indonesia awaited myself and Shahirah who joined delegates from Malaysia, Indonesia and Brunei
Darussalam at Hotel Andara Resort in Cisarua. Veteran and experienced writers like Putu Wijaya (Indonesia), Nisah Haron
(Malaysia), Dr Haji Morsidi (Brunei) and Muhd Rafi Abu Bakar (Singapore) were also invited as mentors. This event, organized
by Indonesia’s Language Centre (Pusat Bahasa), was then launched by Agus Darma, the state’s attorney. Throughout the
programme, the mentors coached participants on various styles of writing techniques and ways to market a published novel.
The first session kicked off with delegates providing a summary of the situation and status of literary development in their
respective countries.
Participants also had the opportunity to voice their queries and share problems that they often face during novel writing.
However, as quoted by prominent writer, Seno Gumira; “A writer is a fighter”. It is the writer who needs to fight against all
odds to boost and ensure the survival of the Malay literary world. The quote was impactful and motivated participants like
myself to continue producing more quality writings. The second day was a critique session between mentor and smaller
group of participants. Ahmad Tohari, established literary figure from Indonesia also shared tips on the third day and examined
the usage of proper grammar during novel writing.
He commented how the use of English words especially technology related terms is inevitable in creative writing. Poetic
license aside, he emphasized how certain elements should be included in a novel as it will distinguish Malay literature from the
West. The fourth day welcomed mentors Asma Nadia and Dr. Hj. Morsidi to discuss on marketing strategies and how target
audience is one of the important aspects in determining a novel’s content. The length of every paragraph and number of
characters were scrutinized as well. The final day was all about love as participants bonded over a the tea plantation visit in
Puncak.
As a young budding writer, the plethora of knowledge gained was well-received and greatly appreciated. We were humbled
by the encouragement and advice expressed by other participants of whom were experienced writers who had several
published novels back in their countries. This experience certainly built camaraderie and contributed to the development of
our own novels – which have already been published by Asas ’50!
READ! SINGAPORE
Our youth mentor
meets with
Habiburrahman
El Shirazy
The month of July in 2011 proved
to be an exciting and enlightening
time for our youth wing mentor,
Muhammad Herwanto as he was
given the honour of chairing a
literary discussion session with
Habiburrahman El Shirazy, the
acclaimed Indonesian novelist and
poet who was thrust into the
spotlight with his chart topping
novel, “Ayat-Ayat Cinta” (Verses of
Love). The literary discussion with
the acclaimed writer was held at
Woodlands Regional Library and
attracted the attention of the
general public from all walks of life
with students from all over the
island flocking to meet their
favourite writer.
The discussion was held in
conjunction with the Read!
Singapore 2011 campaign which
promoted various literary works,
one of which was “Ayat-Ayat
Cinta”.
The novel garnered tremendous
praise amongst readers in the
region and redefined the genre of
popular literature and helped to
encourage communal reading and
literary discussions and criticisms.
From the wide ranging responses
and probing questions put forth
during the session, especially from
the students, it was clear to anyone
present that the myriad universal
issues portrayed in the novel had
touched readers and left a lasting
impression in the way they reflect
a n d re d i s c o v e r t h e j o y t h e
literature.
ASAS ’50 is proud to have
contributed to the success of the
national reading initiative. May it
long continue!
21
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22
!
!
Prof Budi Darma (right) was integral to the success of IRP.
INTERNATIONAL
RESIDENCY
PROGRAMME
by Hairani Asri
Many say that oppportunity strikes
only once, leaving you as a
spectator as it passes by. A novel
to call your own would be every
budding writer’s dream.
How about personal coaching and
daily consultation by Professor
Emeritus Dr Budi Darma, a
prominent Indonesian novelist,
short story writer, essayist, and
literary critics, and renowned
academician from Universitas
Negeri Surabaya (UNESA)
Indonesia?
Sounds too good to be true? Not
for the participants who joined
Asas ’50-NAC International Writer
Residency Programme from June
2010 to February 2011 and gained
fi r s t - h a n d e x p e r i e n c e a s
mentioned. During the intensive six
months stint held in Darul Andalus’
classroom at Wisma Indah, they
were exposed to the mechanism of
novel writing and processes of
producing contemporary creative
works that meet current trends and
future expectations.
The need for such a programme
surfaces with the lack of not only
quality novels but also the quantity
of novels produced in Singapore to
date.
Most writers lack the
guidance and venues to equip
themselves with the necessary
tools to write and produce a novel.
Thus, the programme is a muchneeded impetus for novel writing
enthusiasts and novelists.
Six book, including a compilation of
short poems produced by Prof.
Budi during his stay here will be
launched in conjunction with
Singapore Writers’ Festival 2012.
Literary discourse sessions will be
arranged for 2012 to discuss the
six books by literary critiques
including Prof Budi himself to
celebrate the success of the
programme. Such sessions will
b r i n g t o l i g h t S i n g a p o r e ’s
homegrown novels to the masses.
This tripartite involvement: Asas
’50, National Arts Council, and
Darul Andalus Pte Ltd. builds the
spirit of establishing a literary arts
colony that provides a platform for
participants to publish significant
and great work. Clearly, the humility
exuded by Prof. Budi was highly
exemplary as he helped
participants in developing their
writing skills, approaches and
techniques. They were given
constant valuable feedbacks
concer ning their writing and
storytelling ability, and provided
guidance for them to further
develop their skills.
The mentor’s open approach in
discussion, which brought his frank
views and suggestions for each
participant as well as his
willingness to impart his skill and
knowledge create easy access for
the participant.
23
INTERNATIONAL
RESIDENCY
PROGRAMME
revie
w
The inaugural ASAS ’50 - NAC
International Writer Residency
Programme is an intensive six
months stint for Malay writers
and novelists in Singapore to
undergo intensive training in
writing creative works in the form
of a novel. In this programme,
participants are exposed to the
mechanisms of novel writing and
processes of producing
contemporary creative works
that meet current trends and
future expectations.
Professor Emeritus Dr Budi
Darma runs the programme as
mentor. He is a prominent
Indonesian novelist, short story
writer, essayist, literary critic and
renowned academician from
Universitas Negeri Surabaya
(UNESA) Indonesia.
Obsesi & Ommoni will be the first
of 6 IRP novels to be reviewed.
The other novels published are
listed in the following pages.
24
more than
obsession
I have never been to Korea, but
budding novelist Shahir ah
Samsudin made me feel as if I
had been there. The vivid
description of the tranquil view
in Busan, Seoul and Jeju Island
through the eyes of a Korean
pop or K-pop fanatic by the
name of Rina in this story
reaffirmed the reason as to why
the Hallyu wave occured
around the world.
Rina was overly obsessed with
the the K-pop culture to the
extent that her life revolved
around it. The sadistic twist of
how her parents passed away as
a result of her obsession was
one of the reasons why I loved
this book. Rina’s voice ringed so
clear and true because the
Korean craze is indeed a current
p h e n o m e n o n o f t o d a y.
However, Rina was saddled with
novel review
p h e n o m e n o n o f t o d a y.
However, Rina was saddled with
problems, false hopes and
empty promises upon reaching
Korea for an audition. In a
hopeful bid to be selected for a
new Korean girl-band member,
she travelled to Korea alone
without her mother’s consent.
There, she met a stranger by
the name of Henry who helped
her throughout the painful
ordeal and then became her
husband in the later part of the
story. In an ironic twist, Henry
was indirectly linked to her loss
of innocence by a sexual
predator known as Mr Park.
This keeps readers turning the
pages to find out what happens
next. The final unraveling of the
plot also saw the larger theme
of Obsesi & Ommoni; filial
piety. Although Rina was not by
her mother’s deathbed, they
managed to bid their final
farewell in Seoul Centr al
Mosque. Did her mother fly to
Korea? Or did both mother and
daughter have a teary video call
before her last breath? You will
have to read this book to find
out the answer. Saranghaeyo.
by Hairani Asri
RINTIHAN KALBU BY
SYAHIRAH NABILAH
RINTIHAN KALBU brings together three
characters from a problematic family
background. Their parents are too indulged in
their own affairs that they ignored the
importance of love, care, and concerns for
their teenage growing children.
OBESI & OMMONI BY
SHAHIRAH SAMSUDIN
OBSESI DAN OMMONI is a teenage novel
revolving around the obsession of a teenager
over the famous Korean pop idols that lured
her to run away from home to Korea. There
she was tricked by a syndicate and lost her
innocence. She was left alone in Korea and
going back home was an unlikely alternative.
KELUHAN SEPI BY
SHAHEDA SALIM
KELUHAN SEPI is a motivational novel. This
novel narrates the importance of filial piety,
culture, and humanity. It is a depiction of
contemporary situation facing the Malay
community especially in dealing with old folks
and keeping up with the diminishing culture.
25
!
SEKING BY MOHD
PITCHAY GANI
SEKING is a historiographic metafiction novel
set in two backgrounds, Singapore and
London in the year 2030. The writer uses
many historical documents to reconstruct the
past and frame a new future for the Malay
community.
BERFIKIR DENGAN
NURANI BY PROF
EMERITUS BUDI
DARMA
!
This is a collection of poems reflecting
Singapore’s literary, cultural, and heritage
scene. It paints a picture of the Malay
community aspiration, religion, history and
culture behind the background of a
multicultural Singapore.
!
ULAR MENJALAR BY
OTHMAN SALAM
ULAR MENJALAR depicts the social dilemma
facing the Malay community through a string
of events that culminates in a decision by a
naïve character to fall into the trap of social
vices.
26
PUBLICATIONS
ASAS ’50 published 8 books: 4 books, 2 monographs, and 2 e-books for the period 2011-2012.
This initiative begins with the awareness that Singapore Malay literary scene has yet to have an
institution that consistently strives to publish materials for masses. More works are in the pipeline.
This book is a compilation of 17 working papers from Singapore, Malaysia,
Brunei, Thailand and Indonesia in the areas of language and literature. It is the
product of the 16th Regional Writers Conference held in Singapore organized
by ASAS ’50 in 2011. It provides a very comprehensive researched based
overview of the literary scene in the region.
This is a collection of Mohamed Latiff Mohamed’s 6 experimental stage and
television drama scripts. It portrays his versatile approaches in producing
drama scripts by combining realism, historiography, and surrealism.
This is a pedagogical book on the approaches in teaching and learning of
Malay language and literature for schoolteachers and students. It provides a
framework in both creative and critical thinking that helps readers to
understand the processes involved in reading, writing and thinking that links
critical thinking to creative writing.
This is a collection of Mohamed Latiff Mohamed’s 22 essays depicting the
development in Singapore literary scene from its early years up to the
contemporary times. Mohamed Latiff also shares his insight into the process
of poetry writing by famous and established laureates from Singapore,
Malaysia, and Indonesia.
27
PUBLICATIONS
ASAS ’50 published 8 books: 4 books, 2 monographs, and 2 e-books for the period 2011-2012.
This initiative begins with the awareness that Singapore Malay literary scene has yet to have an
institution that consistently strives to publish materials for masses. More works are in the pipeline.
This e-book is an anthology of short stories from Singaporean youth based
upon a thematic and symbolic interpretation of the letter X in relation to their
life experiences. It portrays an intriguing spectrum of approaches to writing
and the exploration of a theme from varying degrees of experiential learning.
!
This e-book anthology of 48 poems by youth depicts the life and challenges
of the young in facing the realities of life and the varying circumstances of their
choices. It is a first ever collection of poetry written by the members of the
youth wing of ASAS ’50.
This monograph is a research on the concept of moral education in the
teaching and learning of Malay language and literature. This monograph
produces an approache based on the ideals of Dr Abbas Shariff (NIE/NTU)
who has been teaching moral education for decades. This research shows
the important role of literature in moral education based on the works by
Singapore laureate and cultural medallion Muhd Ariff Ahmad.
!
This monograph is a research on the late father of modern Malay poetry,
Masuri SN that looks into his life from literary perspective. The monograph
provides a view into his personality and how his works are affected by his
principle in life that he concludes: Literature is invented for human [ity].
!
28
Editor of VOICES
Siti Noraisha Senin has been
selected as editor-in-chief of
NIE’s Trainee Teachers’ Club
publication, VOICES. Noraisha
is the 4th ASAS ’50 Youth Wing
member to hold that position
after Nur Namira Mazlan, Nur
Lelah Asfee and Nurul Fasha
Samsudin.
Heading to
Manchester!
ASAS ’50 executive member, Nur
Atikah Amalina will be heading
to University of Manchester on an
exchange programme for six
months. The 3rd year psychology
undergraduate at NUS will be
making her way there in Jan 2013.
Bon voyage and best wishes
from us!
29
YOUTH ON THE GO!
On the Jet Airways 9W0017G
flight to Delhi, my mind wandered
to what I would find in the capital
*SALAAM
E-HINDUSTAN
*Greetings from India
of India. India is deemed to be my
‘motherland’, the land where my
grandfather and forefathers
hailed from. Needless to say, I was
expecting to find pieces of myself
and a trip that was much more
personal that just a holiday.The
In this edition of Youth On The Go, ASAS ’50’s
first realization as I stepped out of
youth member, Nurul Fasha Samsudin travels to
Indira Gandhi International
the faraway mystic lands of India in search of her
Airport was that Delhi mornings
ancestral history.
are brutal. Perhaps I will do some
‘soul-searching’ tomorrow when
the weather is not trying to kill
me, I told myself.
Delhi is truly a multidimensional
metropolis. With its insane traffic
paired with their persistent touts,
it’s easy to write Delhi off but keep
an open mind and I saw beneath
the scrathy surface, a city that
boasts awestriking monuments
such as the Minar, Jamma Masjid,
India Gate and of course, the list is
not exhuastive. Did I find myself
here? Well, as I munched on gulab
jamuns and ladoos, it was hard to
say!
30
YOUTH ON THE GO!
After crossing the Uttar Pradesh
border, we reached Agra and what
else would justify this state besides
the crown of India, the Taj. An Urdu
poem by Sadhir Ludhviani says, Ek
shahensah ne banwa ke haseen Taj
Mahal, hum garibon ki mohabbat
ka udaya hai mazak which loosely
translates into “A king created this
beautiful Taj Mahal and with that
instantly made fun of us peasants’
love.” The Taj will make you stop in
your tracks, the hair at the back of
your neck stand, the Taj never fails
to wonder.
So did I finally find myself? Amidst
the bazaars and bathoora, I had a
reconnection with a country that
was never mine to begin with.
Despite the incessant honking and
inane haggling, there were flash
moments of déjà vu that triggered
the deepest parts of me. And as I
was packing a luggage bag that
seemed to be bursting at the seams, I
knew that I had found the scattered
pieces of my ancestral lineage.
31
E
TH
e
v
a
h ou ..
y ad
re
EDITORIAL
Advisor
Mohd Pitchay Gani M A Aziz
Editor
Muhammad Herwanto Johari
Subeditor
Hairani Asri
Contributors
Ariff Rizwan Sahab
?
our biannual
newsletter on the
literary arts scene
Get updates from our website
asas50.com our find us at
www.facebook.com/asas50!
M
A
TE
Fariz Husna Sajani
Nurul Fasha Samsudin
Shahirah Samsudin
Shaheda Salim
Siti Noraisha Md Senin
Sitti Maisarah Abu Bakar
Design & Layout
Muhammad Herwanto Johari
Print Production
Oxford Graphic Printers
Pte Ltd
© Angkatan Sasterawan 50 (ASAS ’50) 2012
ISSN: 1793-4013X
All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be produced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording
or otherwise, without prior permission of the publisher, Angkatan Sasterawan 50 (ASAS ’50). Whilst ASAS ’50 has used reasonable endeavours to ensure that the information provided
in the publications is accurate and up to date at the time of issue, it reserves the right to make corrections and does not warrant that it is complete. Angkatan Sasterawan ’50 disclaims
all liability and responsibility for any loss to any person by any act or omission, due to the material contained in this publication.